Wonton Jalapeño Poppers are spicy little treats that are sure to make your taste buds dance! They combine creamy cheese and zesty jalapeños, all wrapped in crispy wonton wrappers.
I love serving these at parties because they’re always a hit! Just remember to have some drinks on hand; those jalapeños can pack a punch! 🌶️
Making them is super easy too! Just fill, fold, and fry or bake. Perfect for when friends come over or when I’m craving a fun snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: These are the stars of the dish! If you want less heat, try using milder peppers like Anaheim or poblano. On the other hand, if you love spice, go for serrano peppers!
Cream Cheese: This gives the filling its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, look for low-fat cream cheese or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack: These cheeses add great flavor. You can substitute them with pepper jack for extra spiciness or use any cheese you love, like goat cheese or feta for a different taste!
Wonton Wrappers: If you’re unable to find wonton wrappers, you could use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares. These will yield a slightly thicker popper but are still delicious!
Dipping Sauce: I love serving them with ranch, but you can mix things up with spicy mayo, guacamole, or even a tangy barbecue sauce!
How Do I Make Sure the Wontons Don’t Break Open While Frying?
Sealing your wontons properly is key! Be sure to brush the edges with water before folding. This helps them stick together. When frying, do it in small batches; overcrowding can cause them to break.
- Press firmly around the edges to ensure they are sealed tightly.
- Check the oil temperature before frying—too hot can scorch the outside while leaving the filling cold.
Let them cool on paper towels to keep them crispy!
Wonton Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 12 jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Wrapping and Frying:
- 1 package wonton wrappers (about 50 wrappers)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions
- Optional dipping sauce: ranch or cilantro-lime crema
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying. In total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes to make these delicious Wonton Jalapeño Poppers. They are perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Jalapeños:
Start by washing the jalapeños, then slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon or knife, ensuring that you wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. Set aside the prepared jalapeños.
2. Mixing the Cheese Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Stuffing the Jalapeños:
Take a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture and fill each jalapeño half with it. Make sure to pack the filling in well for a cheesy burst in every bite!
4. Wrapping in Wonton:
Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place one stuffed jalapeño half in the center of the wrapper. Gently brush the edges of the wrapper with water to help them seal. Now, fold the wrapper over the jalapeño and press the edges firmly to seal it completely—this prevents any filling from leaking out.
5. Frying the Poppers:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the wonton-wrapped jalapeños into the hot oil in small batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet!
6. Draining and Serving:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This will help keep them nice and crispy. If you’d like, sprinkle the cooked poppers with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or cilantro-lime crema.
Enjoy your homemade crispy, cheesy, and spicy Wonton Jalapeño Poppers! They’re sure to be a favorite!
Can I Make These Wonton Jalapeño Poppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the jalapeños with the cheese filling ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. When you’re ready, just fry them up before serving!
What If I Don’t Have Wonton Wrappers?
If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares. They will hold up well for frying, though they may result in a slightly thicker popper.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake these poppers for a healthier version! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the stuffed and wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftover Wonton Jalapeño Poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up!
